Hello everybody. I've been considering getting a lever action rifle (currently do not own one... but learn to shoot on a 22lr version as a child).... Strongly leaning toward the 30-30 or 357 models, but I would like to ask the more experienced shooter here about a caliber recommendation (and maybe a specific model/manufacturer if you have a favorite). I would be using it mostly for range firing... but would like to have something for woods trekking and possibly bringing down medium to large sized game (deer/ferrel pigs).

You know, I never considered the 308... That might be an option also. Does anyone have any experience with a lever action chambered in 45Colt?

PS... Nice rifle you got there MasterP. Is that a M1??

I have a lever (Marlin) in 45 Colt that I use for Cowboy Action events. However, if I were to recommend a caliber for the usage as you have described I would be inclined to say get a 30-30. Ballistically it will do everything you want and ammo is always plentiful. I also own levers in 44 Mag and 444 Marlin and 45-70. They have specific uses, but as an all around utility round it is hard to beat the 30-30, again for what you plan to use it for. Good luck.

__________________
Bill
NRA Life Member

"Democracy is two wolves and one lamb voting what to have for lunch. Liberty is a well armed lamb contesting the vote" Ben Franklin

"The constitutions of most of our States assert that all power is inherent in the people; that... it is their right and duty to be at all times armed." --Thomas Jefferson to John Cartwright, 1824. ME 16:45

"It is Godís job to judge and forgive my enemy, I only arrange the meeting." Unidentified Marine

There ARE powerful lever action rifles- the BLR in .308, Winchester 71 in .348, etc. However, for use described, agree with the 30-30.

The most popular deer rifle in the US is the Winchester 94 in 30-30. However, I prefer the second most popular- Marlin 336, in 30-30. The Winchester is now made in an alloy steel that will not blue, so is iron plated, then blued. Means you can not touch up the bluing. The open top action does not lend itself to a scope easily.

There ARE powerful lever action rifles- the BLR in .308, Winchester 71 in .348, etc. However, for use described, agree with the 30-30.

The most popular deer rifle in the US is the Winchester 94 in 30-30. However, I prefer the second most popular- Marlin 336, in 30-30. The Winchester is now made in an alloy steel that will not blue, so is iron plated, then blued. Means you can not touch up the bluing. The open top action does not lend itself to a scope easily.